WILMINGTON — The aquarium and a nonprofit research organization are teaming up to host a fundraiser next week.
Ahead of OCEARCH’s 45th ocean research expedition, N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher and the nonprofit will host Suds for Sharks at Waterman’s Brewing Company, April 16 from 4 to 7 p.m.
The family-friendly event will have complimentary activities for children from 4 to 5 p.m., including a shark tooth dig. This will be followed by a presentation in Waterman’s Ohana room at 5 p.m. with more information about OCEARCH and insight into critical shark research happening off the coast of North Carolina. The hour-long discussion will include a question-and-answer session.
Presenters include world-renowned watermen and OCEARCH Fishing Master Captain Brett McBride, leading shark scientist and OCEARCH’s Chief Veterinarian Harley Newton and North Carolina Aquariums Chief Veterinarian Emily Christiansen. OCEARCH’s crew and representatives from NCAFF will also be on hand to answer questions.
Attendees will gain a greater understanding of the importance of sharks, and Waterman’s will donate $1 per pint sold to OCEARCH’s shark research.
“We are thrilled that OCEARCH chose our area to launch their Expedition Northbound,” NCAFF director Hap Fatzinger said in a press release. “It is a great opportunity for us to amplify the critical work they are conducting every day in shark research and conservation.”
The event kicks off Expedition Northbound, which embarks from Wrightsville Beach on April 17. The crew will head north to the Outer Banks before wrapping up back in Wrightsville Beach May 4.
OCEARCH’s research shows many sharks use the continental shelf waters around the Outer Banks as an overwintering and spring staging area before heading farther north. The trip’s goal is to sample, tag and release sharks to support five different research projects including movement, health, microbiome studies and more.
North Carolina Aquariums’ Christiansen will be joining the second leg of the journey.
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